Everton Want To Urgently Complete The Signing Of €40 Million Winger By Next Weekend: How Good Is This move? | OneFootball

Everton have struggled as a club in recent times. They have spent two consecutive seasons on the brink of avoiding relegation in the Premier League. David Moyes’ return has certainly raised hopes, but the team still looks far from solid and stable football. Last season, they showed some strength in some big matches, but consistency was lacking. The team’s midfield was weak, there was a lack of pace on the wings, and creativity was completely absent in the final third. This is why the board is now aggressively entering the summer transfer market.

Moyes’ plan is clear—he wants to infuse youth and energy into the squad. He knows that the old methods will no longer work. The new system requires new players who are fast, direct and who can make a difference on their own. With this in mind, the club have been keeping an eye on a particular winger for a few weeks, who has been in the news in Ligue 1. This is not a gossip, but part of serious scouting and data-backed preparation.

Everton set for big bid on Malick Fofana

ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JANUARY 23: Malick Fofana of Olympique Lyonnais controls the ball during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between Fenerbahce SK and Olympique Lyonnais at on January 23, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

Graeme Bailey has told TBR Football that Everton are trying hard to sign Lyon’s young attacker Malick Fofana. The initial offer was €36 million, including add-ons, but Lyon rejected the bid. Now the Toffees are ready to make a revised offer which could be more than €40 million. Lyon also do not want to make any concessions in the base fee. In such a situation, the deal could go up to €42–45 million.

Malick Fofana scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 41 matches for Lyon last season. He is a fast, direct and fearless winger who isolates defenders and is adept at getting the ball into the box. His dribbling is sharp, his decision-making is strong, and he can play on both flanks. Everton have long needed a player like Fofana.

Will the deal happen?

Everton’s current move is aggressive, and even if Lyon stay resolute at their demands, the Toffees will not back down. The club need attacking depth, and Fofana could fill that void. Moyes knows that if the team is to rise above mid-table, they need not just defensive but attacking depth as well. So the deal could happen before next weekend, provided no other club jumps in.

Fofana’s role in David Moyes’ system

Moyes often fields his team in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation. Fofana could be used as an inverted winger or a wide playmaker. He can cut in from the left and pose a goal threat or send in low crosses from the right. This versatility would be extremely valuable for Everton. His pressing ability and off-ball movement would also fit into Moyes’ structured game. If the club finalise the deal, it would be more than just a signing but a symbol of Everton’s new attacking intent.